HC Deb 10 December 1962 vol 669 cc18-9
33. Mr. Boyden

asked the Minister of Health if arrangements for the registration of all hospital cancer cases have now been completed.

Mr. Braine

Not everywhere.

Mr. Boyden

What is holding up these arrangements? Is it lack of money, or is it simply bad administration?

Mr. Braine

Cancer registration is more complex than notification of infectious diseases, since information is sought on a whole variety of points. My right hon. Friend is asking that this matter should be given higher priority where the coverage is still not satisfactory. The importance of full registration is being impressed upon hospital boards.

Mr. Boyden

That was what was being done in June. Why is not the Minister accelerating this matter and taking steps to ensure that there is full coverage in the very near future?

Mr. Braine

I understand that in the case of certainly three hospital boards and eleven London teaching hospitals there is already 90 per cent. coverage, Or better, and that the figures show considerable improvement. I think that the steps now being taken by my right hon. Friend will have the desired effect.